This week we celebrate National Dog Day and announce the winner of the second annual TSA Cutest Canine Contest! We know we asked you to do the impossible – choose between equally adorable canines – but we are so glad to announce the winner…**drumroll please!**
Kajla!
Kajla is a 5-year-old Vizsla who works with her handler Penny at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) in Honolulu, Hawaii. Kajla has been an active Explosive Detection Canine (EDC) for 4 years, and is planning to have many more years under her vest before she retires. Getting a toy is a reward for a great job at work, and Kajla loves, and we mean LOVES, to play with her squeaking tennis ball and rope toy.
Despite her adorableness, Kajla is one of over 1,000 TSA EDC teams who work to keep the traveling public safe. Training is a laborious process, running 12 to 16 weeks, and after the initial training, regular tests are conducted to make sure the dogs are still up for the job. Being an EDC is hard work, so please do not distract them or pet them next time you see one keeping you safe!
As loved as Kajla is, she was not the only K9 entered in this contest. All of these K-9s are adorable in our eyes, and winners in our hearts!
Ron
This 3-year-old chocolate Labrador Retriever out of Oakland International Airport (OAK) stole the hearts of many with his laid back style. Relaxing and pool time are two of Ron’s favorite things. Ron loves to play fetch and get his squeaker ball as a reward for his hard work.
Lexa-Alexey
Pointy ears and no drama reveals Lexa-Alexey. Lexa-Alexey is a German Shepherd working out of Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). At 3-years old, she is just getting started in keeping everyone safe. Her favorite things? She lives for crunchy treats and plays with anything that bounces!
Djanni
Djanni made it to the finals this year, following in the footsteps of his brother Alfie – our 2019 winner. Working out of Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX), this 3-year-old German Shorthaired Pointer is most excited by fetching, tugging and thrashing his squeaky toys. He’s only been at work for a year, so make sure to keep a look out next time you fly!
